One Week before Two Weeks of TAPER...I'm not excited about Taper or anything....really :)

This is my Journey into the World of Ironman. It's my journal/documentation of the ups and downs of what it takes to be an age-group athlete training for an Ironman triathlon. This is more of a way for me to remember what I am doing over the course of the training season, as any Ironman Athlete can tell you, sometimes the days can blur into one training day of swim, bike, run after another. So, while some may not find this at all interesting, those that wonder...could I do an Ironman? Do I have what it takes to do an Ironman? I give you a peek into my journey and days to complete my next Ironman.  Forgive any misspelled words/awkward sounding sentences. I'm pretty happy just to get them down on paper. Consider it a test of your mental skills to figure out what I'm saying. Hope you enjoy reading my journey.  I'll see you at the Finishline!!!

Current Training Totals:

Swim       84,950 yds             34:59 hr/min

Bike       1518.59  Miles       113:11 hr/min

Run         373.82  Miles         79:44 hr/min

Other/                                     31:45 hr/min

Strength

Overall  Training Time:       259:39 hr/min

Monday-  Well, I’m apparently SOOO excited about taper.  That I chose to make today “honorary taper day”. I was tired when I woke today. I think from the fun effects of running at 10,000 feet in cold and windy conditions, then driving back to Billings and getting in my swim. Then not being able to fall asleep. I made it through the day, but then barely dragged my butt home, laid down on the bed, and was out for 4 1/2 hours. I was nauseous again today, so I didn’t eat much, and I just felt crappy all day.  Oh well, I did enjoy my nap, and I’ve accepted that it’s  my body’s way of saying I needed rest. So , I rested. Plus, with that extra “time” on my training schedule form last week, I figure I’m good. :)

Tuesday-  Man. You would think I would feel pretty awake today?  Instead I felt more tired. Last year, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde started appearing at this time. I’m starting to get a glimmer of them, but it’s luckily not as intense.   I got work done today. I got home, I still ended up taking a hour long nap. but then I was up and off to the Y for a hour run on the treadmill, then in the pool for 2200 yds. Nothing to exciting, I did enjoy my hot tub massage.   It’s funny, just when I think I can’t do any more, my body wants to sleep, I manage to push through the fatigue and I get the workout in, and surprise myself. This makes me happy. I may have stated this in last weeks post, but I don’t remember, so if i’m repeating this, then it’s a pretty awesome thing I’m feeling right now with my training.  I’m not sure i’m at 100% healthy, but I’m really, really close. I also, kinda feel like I’m 100% trained. I’m getting the workouts in, I’m getting the nutrition in, I’m getting the hydration in, I’m getting my Base Performance in. I’m feeling….good.  Tired of course, but, good.   I like this feeling. 

Wednesday-  Typically today is my day off and I get on one of my long workouts. But I took Sunday off to do my 10K at 10,000 Feet. So, out of the kindness of my coworkers, they let me work half a day to noon, and I went and got in my longest swim for training of 4400 yards, and a “easy” 2:15 run. I got out of work around 12:30,  I got home, I threw my bike in the Escape and ran it over to the bike shop. I had noticed some weird sounds coming from it while I was doing my 50-60 cadence at 125 power. It was consistently making noise, so I got a few leads on a good bike shop and I took it in for a tune up. Hopefully all is well, and I’ll have it back ASAP. I then ran over to the Y, and jumped in the pool to start my 4400 yards swim. I’m happy to report, that I actually felt comfortable doing it. The ENTIRE DISTANCE. every other 200 yards I used the paddles, just to make sure I kept my shoulder doing okay, it was sore, but nothing bad. As always, am the first one in the pool, and last one out.  I finished with a fist pump in the air. Hopefully the life guard wasn’t laughing to much at me. Into the hot tub to stretch out the muscles. Next I had a 2:15 easy run.  But I was also waiting anxiously for the bike guy to call, and hopefully pick up my bike before 6pm. So I had planned to go run on the treadmill, until I heard from him so I had a quick access to run and get the bike, then finish out my run.  Well, as it got closer to 6, he never called. So I resigned myself to having to go pick up my bike tomorrow when the shop opens at 9 am. Thats if my bike is done, he had 4 before mine to fix.   Fingers crossed I can start my ride as early as possible, cause I ‘m not sure what the weather is like tomorrow. The possible 20% today turned in to pouring today. So, I pray I can get out and get another Molt Loop Ride.  Fingers crossed.  SO, needless to say, I finished my long 2:15 hour run on the dreadmill. You know you have been there too long when the CNN news cycles through 3 times.  Finished at 7 ish. Then back in the hot tub, shower and to the store for some quick errands.  Then Home for the night.   I get to sleep in and be ready to go by 9 AM to hopefully pick up my bike, and get on the road ASAP.  Fingers crossed. 

Thursday-  Woke this morning tired.  I slept in. I knew I could though, because I couldn’t get my bike until 9 am. Then when 9 rolled around, I called the bike shop. Still not done, he will call me back around 10 AM. Still not done. I seriously used this time to sleep. Then 10:45 he called. All set, bring the shoes, and let’s make sure we are all good to go.   See you at 11:30 AM.  Whew…I’m a little frustrated as I really wanted to be done with my ride early today. now I’m resorting to possibly needing to do a trainer ride, because I know storms are forecasted for the afternoon. So I head to the the shop, he tells me everything he did. Tweaked the detrailer a bit, checked out the bottom bracket, did a thorough check of the bike, all looks good.  Ok, so on the trainer we go….after a few minutes in the cadence and pace I was at before…..click, click, click. There is the noise. Darn it!!  This tri bike is more finicky then a…wait, I won’t finish that sentence.  But man…what the heck? So I peddled for another few minutes with the  guy climbing all over me and the bike looking for the sound.  Then I jumped off.  Finally, we determined it was coming from the seat. Particularly from the Xlab carbon water bottle holder and the pouch that was by the seat holding a spare tire.  REALLLY??? So, because I was changing it out anyway, we took it off. Got back on….no sound.  Oh COME ON!!!   It’s now 1:00. With his help we switch out the single water holder to the double holder.  Looks old school and not very aero, but I need to get on more fluids on my ride, especially my Base Rocket Fuel. I want three bottles of Rocket Fuel so I have no excuse to try and conserve. I will not have the issue I had last year. So we get it all switched out, and I jump on one more time, no noise.  Ha Ha!!!  I was super happy that is was something so simple, yet frustrated that it was something so simple.  I was frustrated that it was now going on 1:30PM and I still had 4:30 hours to ride and 45 min to run.   The guy thou was awesome! He took good care of me, and I was out the door by 1:45.  So, home I go, watching the clouds start to form in the sky. Thinking to myself, darn it, I could be done with my ride by now if I didn’t have to take it to the bike shop.  But I know she needed to have a tune up and it was good for her.  But then…Dr. Jekyll arrived.  In full force. I got home, I got my back tired changed out to ride the trainer, I got her all setup on the trainer. And I was feeling ill.  I was shaky. again.  I laid down to relax for a bit to see of the nausea would go away. I ate something, because by this time, I realized that I didn’t really eat much at all today. My nutrition sucked.  So I ate and relaxed…another hour goes by. Then I get distracted by some chores, laundry.  I don’t get on the trainer until  4:15 pm. I’m toast.  I’m now grumpy, I’m getting emotional, I’m in the brink of tears, I distract myself with some tv shows on the trainer, I make it exactly 1:38 hr/min. and I get off. I lay on the floor in front of the fan.   What. The. Hell?  Where is this coming from? I muster up all the positive motivation quotes I can think of. I look up Ironman Cowboy and how he is on Ironman 41 out of 50 out starting the run, and I know he is more tired then me. I think of turning my boxes red on Training Peaks, I think of how I DNF’ed last year.  My brain basically flips me off..and the waterworks begin. I laid on the ground and cried, for a good 15 minutes.  Ladies and Gentlemen…welcome to the wonderful world of TAPER. 

I managed to muster up the resolve to get up, go take a shower. And then I get some food in my system. I lay on the bed and I look up my Ironman blog from last year at this time. I read the blog titled Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.  Whew, I am right where I need to be. While I hate the fact that I didn’t do my whole ride. I’m happy, that I know  I melted down just the same last year. I’d train and have a really good day, Wednesday with my swim, and then the next day, it’s like I don’t even know what I’m frickin doing.  Ha Ha…and I  paid for this.  So, after reading this blog post, I let myself off the hook. Once again, I must of needed it. I’ve got the fitness in my body, I have what it takes, I will do this.  I’ve Got This. 

Friday-  Better today mentally, I just totally didn’t let myself think about it at all. Except to show a few people my Tapering Triathlete Warning. It helped, and I arrived home to feel pretty good for once. I called up one of my best friends and wished them a Happy Birthday today.  And then I made up some cool tattoos for IMB. I have a few other top secret ones, but I am not sharing until race day.  I need to still tweak them a bit before final prep.   Then off I went to swim. I was going to try and get in my run from yesterday that I missed, but decided, I need to let that go. That day is done. No Looking back. Only forward. So Lift and then Swim.  A short easy 1700 yards.  Hot Tub. Home. Relax. 

Saturday-  Woke today, feeling surprisingly awake.  At least for the AM, By the afternoon, my brain went into taper mode. I ended up coming home and took a hour nap. on the bike trainer by 5pm, then I grilled a steak, relaxed, and  well…Bed. 

Sunday-   I had my first Race Nightmare this morning!! How appropriate with it being exactly two weeks away from Race Day, and start since I woke up late at 6:30 AM.  It’s was so darn vividly real too. My normal “taper” nightmares are that I sleep in, and don’t get to the start on time, then I get there, and they are already swimming, and I can’t start.    

This morning, I had a different kind of dream, I dreamed that I had a good swim, and then, on the bike I finished!!!!  But the officials wouldn't let me go on the run. They kept saying I didn’t make the bike cut off time.  And I was pissed, I kept saying, I was good on time, I finished the bike and now I could run. I had visions of DNF’ing AGAIN, and how I once again, was not going to get to run across that beautiful finish line. I was devastated. Then I had several thoughts in my head, 1.  How come I don’t remember riding the course? I Know it was hot, but I don’t remember being hot, and I wasn’t “sore” from my ride, how can I miss the cut off time. 2. Why the heck didn’t my coach, Jillian, who was there to cheer me on, not get on my ass and tell me to move?? And where was she anyway???  (ha ha sorry Coach)   Then I had all this dread, how could I do this a second time? and now I was going to have to go do it again, I’m not sure I had the desire to do it a third time and keep failing at it.  Then I woke up.   Awesome. And that’s the self doubt portion of TAPERING rearing it’s ugly head.     

I spent the day at work, ignoring my nightmare so I couldn’t let it get me down. Then I came home, had a nice  20 min nap, and got on the treadmill and worked my hills with a 5% grade. I was pretty happy with my workout. I was tired, It was hot. But I got it done, and pretty darn close to the times coach wanted, give or take 20 seconds in pace. Shower. Dinner. Relax.  

13 days and counting.  TAPER BABY!!! TAPER!!!!!!

Here is the weather obsession portion of the taper….I’m now within range of checking the weather in Boulder…Multiple times....Every day.  I honestly won't believe any of it, until I’m in the race. last year it forecasted 85 as I was riding to the race site in the morning. And ended up 95 ish with 100 plus degree ambient heat.  Yep. Not going to stress. I also heard the water temp went down to 70.5 degrees. I’m not worried about the swim, regardless, I’m in a wetsuit, I’m not trying to win any awards.   All is good.

The Week AFTER the Longest Training Week ...or is it????

This is my Journey into the World of Ironman. It's my journal/documentation of the ups and downs of what it takes to be an age-group athlete training for an Ironman triathlon. This is more of a way for me to remember what I am doing over the course of the training season, as any Ironman Athlete can tell you, sometimes the days can blur into one training day of swim, bike, run after another. So, while some may not find this at all interesting, those that wonder...could I do an Ironman? Do I have what it takes to do an Ironman? I give you a peek into my journey and days to complete my next Ironman.  Forgive any misspelled words/awkward sounding sentences. I'm pretty happy just to get them down on paper. Consider it a test of your mental skills to figure out what I'm saying. Hope you enjoy reading my journey.  I'll see you at the Finishline!!!

Current Training Totals:

Swim       76,650 yds             31:44 hr/min

Bike       1472.27  Miles       109:41 hr/min

Run         348.91  Miles         75:02 hr/min

Other/                                     31:00 hr/min

Strength

Overall  Training Time:       247:27 hr/min

Holy crap.  I’m tired.   I don’t have much else to say.   I am lucky I’m getting  words down on the computer right now.  Really.   I could have pictures...but it's to much effort to find them. Except for one....

Wait???   I trained 18:18 hours this week? That was supposed to be my long week last week?  AND I missed TWO WORKOUTS!!!    I reviewed my training plan. I think coach got sneaky and adjusted a few things, add 30 minutes here, 20 minutes there.  I was supposed to have had around 14 hours of training according to my printed version.  Guess I know why I'm tired!!!  It will all be worth it on Aug. 2nd.   

Monday—- Woke today, feeling tired. I finally got in my longest workout, then it hit me that I still have two more weeks of long workouts. While last week was longest of training schedule, I still have my longest run and bike this week. I felt it. I was tired today. I got in a good 1:15 hour bike, and then an easy 25 min treadmill. But the body was letting me know.  It. Wasn’t. Happy.  

Tuesday-  Oh , gosh, this day was hell. I woke up and didn’t feel good, I had a hard time eating, I was crampy , I was nauseous. I was not in a good place. I ended up leaving work a bit earlier then planned. I was going to go get a massage, but I was thinking on canceling it until the Rehab Director told me I should go do it, It might make me feel better. Man, she was right, I went, and I ended up having a really good massage. My body felt so much better. But I got out later than planned, and still feeling tired. I choose to make today a rest day.  I really wanted to keep my workouts all green, but I knew my body needed this. And since I didn’t really eat anything all day, I knew the workouts would not be where they needed to be. So home I went, and then rested, bed. 

Wednesday-  Today was rough day for me, I  was still feeling pretty darn crappy from yesterday. I slept in, late. Like till noon, late.  Now I did get up a few times to let the dogs out, but I fell right back into bed, and slept. I was seriously going to let my self have an “off” day. I was going to let my excuses be stronger.  But then After my 10th nap. I rallied. I managed to get up, and go salvage the day. I went out at 3 pm, and got in my 3:10 hr/min run. My longest run to date. It was hot, but I stayed strong. I didn’t get my second time like I wanted, but I was also running up hill most of the time, so I decided I just had to do the best i could. I ran 15 miles. For me, that is pretty darn good. My left leg was sore, and achey, but not horrible, tight more so. It’d feel better when I stretched it out.  So after my run, I headed right over to the pool, and got in my 1700 yards. I had planned to do more to make up for my missed swim yesterday, but honestly, I was thinking about my ride tomorrow, and decided that I just had to  let that go. I knew that If I did that swim anyway, it would make my shoulder pretty sore. So , i just let it go. I got home after the swim, and made a steak with fresh green beans and fruit.  Then I relaxed the rest of the night.  

                                         GOT SALT??? this was after my 3:10 hour run.....

Thrusday-  I woke tired.  Motivation Zero. But I knew I would do it, because I didn’t get in one of my long rides last time, and I want to be better prepared for this one. I could tell the long run from yesterday was going to hurt today. My left leg hamstring felt pretty tender.  I was procrastinating on my ride. By far, the long rides are the hardest for me. Mainly because I do them all alone. It’s different during a race, i have others around. I don’t have any training buddies, so it makes for a long lonely ride. It was another hot day.  I finally got up and got moving around 7:30 ish. It took me til 9:30 to get out the door. I planned my ride just like last week. Do the first part on road, and come back for focused treadmill work for the last half. My longest bike ride yet.  

I could feel the fatigue before I started, So I focused on one pedal at a time, The first 2.5 hours, just easy. Under 125 for power was the goal. I don’t think I got above except for hills. I honestly felt comfortable riding at a 82 rpm, and 92 Power, I felt comfortable there, kinda like I could do that all day.  I am noticing that the false flats don’t seem as intimidating on my tri bike. this makes me happy, that’s always been my enemy.  

I got going on my ride, and could tell it was going to be a hot one, not in the 90s of course. but still, hot enough that it’s good to practice in. I think because I started out tired and sore, it made this ride feel a bit harder, Mentally and physically. But ironically, I got home faster than last week. Not by much mind you. But I got it down.  I was feeling the heat a bit. I had ran out of my rocket fuel, and I think I need to get another water bottle on the back. I’m concerned I won’t have enough for race day.  I’d rather have too much, then think I have to conserve.  

Once home, I drank a Coke and then honestly I laid down on the floor and put my feet up for a bout 30 min. I was feeling crappy. But then I got back on my bike on the trainer, and finished out my intervals. I had attempted to do 2 of them on the course/ride. But it was very hard to do any type of focused interval. but I still counted them. So I did four of them on the trainer. I wasn’t where I wanted to be with power, but I did the best I could. I was tired.    So tired that I was dreading the 45 min run. 

I ended up on the treadmill after the run, I started out planning to walk my 10 easy, but only did 5 min, and did 5 min easy jog. Then I started my 25 min run. I managed to stay pretty consistent in the 10:30 ish range, I think. So I did better then I thought. I finished with 10 easy, let’s face it…I walked. I was tired. I was tired. Yep. 

My body was tired. I managed to get dinner, and then well. I sat like a puddle of mud on the bed and went to bed early.  I’ve been really focused on eating more healthy. While the scale doesn’t show it, I can tell I’m losing weight , cause I kit is starting to feel  loose.   So, I looked and saw I burned 2287 calories today. I don’t feel the least bit guilty for eating 300 calories of ice cream as a treat.  I find it ironic that I don’t get Starbucks anymore. I think I have had it four times since being here in Billings in the last six months. For those of you who know my Starbucks Addiction, this is huge for me.  

Friday-  Tired. My body is tired. I got in my long nap after work. Like a 2 hour solid nap. Just enough to have some pretty intensive nightmares/dreams.  Most while swimming. Ha!! Then I woke up and went swimming….. I had 3000 yds to swim tonight. While feeling tired. What’s funny is I was like “oh, okay, no biggie, it’s just  3,000 yds.”   But then when I got to the pool, I felt like lead. I was still 1/2 asleep, even with waking up for 45 min before. I felt like I was lead, swimming through the pool.  The first half felt brutal. Then somewhere in my dazed state, I started to think, “Hey…this is easy!!!!”  How did It come to where 3000 yards felt like a “standard” distance for working out? My usual was around 24-2500 yards and I was happy. Now it’s around 3000?  that’s awesome.  What’s not awesome? is being so tired, I almost feel asleep, in the hot tub.   I ran to Olive Garden for dinner for the first time in four months and picked up some food. I got home and ate around 9:30pm.  I now know what it feels like to walk around like a Zombie.   

The biggest bummer thing right now, is my lungs hurt.  I’m not sure if its from all the activity and they are just sore. If it’s from my vocal cord dysfunction from the heavy exertion on the bike, or if it’s from all the smoke from the fires in the air, which I can’t really smell it, but people say it’s there.  It’s Vicks on the chest tonight. 

Saturday-  Today I woke…hmmmm….tired?  sounding familiar huh?  That’s the joy of heaving training a month out, before taper.  Have I mentioned, I can’t wait for taper?  I normally do three weeks. This time out…it’s two weeks.  I had a burst of energy for work, somehow. And I got out on time.   Then I had to drive to Red Lodge and pick up my race packet for my race tomorrow at 10, 000 Feet!! Yes!  A 10 K at 10,000 feet. I’m kinda excited.  It was nice to take a drive. So I drove 1:10 hr/min out to Red Lodge to pick up my packet, bib, t shirt (in less then 5 min), then I stopped off in a shop for a little exploring, which I realize I haven’t done in a while. And then I drove home.  I read that packet pickup was only Sat night.   So I had no choice.  I even emailed to see if I could get it race day, no one responded.    I got home around 8:00 ish. ate some dinner. Then I laid down in bed. I wanted to just skip my workout and go to bed, get my stuff ready for tomorrow and be done.  I don’t know where I mustered up the energy.  Maybe it’s reading all the cool things going on about Scott Jaurk trying to break the AP trail record, Maybe it’s IronCowboy doing 50 Ironmans,  in 50 days in 50 states ( he comes to Billings July 22nd),  Or maybe it’s reading about others doing some amazing endurance feats. So I got on my trainer when I felt like I just had no energy. and somewhere I get the strength to get in a good workout.  I’m not sure that this was a good one…I did finish around 9:30 pm.  Then I got everything packed for tomorrow for my early wakeup and drive, and went to bed.


(PLEASE SEE POST ON BEARTOOTH RUN, for photos and such)

Sunday-  Woke around 4:30 AM. I got up and got moving, and was out the door by 5:00 AM.  I was heading to Red Lodge, then another 50 min up to the Beartooth Highway, and into WY for a 10 K race at 10,000 feet. This would be my “try something new” for Billings.  Granted, I’ve done 10 Ks, but it was the 10,000 feet that’s new. 

I got into Red Lodge early. But that was okay,  I was able to drive up the Beartooth Pass/Highway with no one else on the road, It was pretty cool, especially with the sun rising, the clouds, the wind.  oh…the wind.  I got to the top of the first lookout, and pulled over for a picture, used the restroom. IT was COLD.  I was a little worried that it was going to not warm up, because the clouds were pretty full, And the wind…the clouds were Racing across the mtns. I was going to be “racing” in the clouds!!  Ok that’s kinda cool. 

I drove up the pass, and over into Wyoming, past the ski resort, and to the start of the race, I finally was seeing other cars now. I was one of the first ones, but not the first, to pull in.  I was directed to park at the back, and I backed in. But then I looked back and was wondering…will my emergency break hold?? By this time, the wind was blowing so bad, my Escape was rocking pretty good. I had an image of my Escape going over. I have no idea how hard it was blowing, but I was waiting for the car to flip.  The temp was FREEZING also.  I of course had no service here, so I have no idea how cold it was, but it was no where near 70 degrees that was claimed.  And again the clouds were “RACING” across the sky. 

So, here i sat, watching everyone else show up, I had an hour to kill. So I huddled in the Escape, I cleaned it up a bit, then I went on a scavenger hunt for any extra clothes I might have.  And after I put on three layers on top/two on bottom. I, Thank God, found gloves buried on the floor, and on of my AZ IM Beanies in the center console. I don’t think I would of survived without these. It was THAT COLD. 

Finally, it was time to get to the race start, and I bundled up with what I could, and headed over to use the porta potty’s and then the race meeting. There were maybe 50 of us for the 10 K, and 50 for the 5K.  Brave Souls. 

The sun would peak out for five seconds max, then the clouds would zoom past and hide it again. The wind…..bitter cold, and fast.  

 The 10 K started in a valley, so we ran up a 1.3 mile hill to the East Summit, then turned around, ran down, and then ran up to the West Summit (higher at 1.5,but a bit steeper) then ran down to the finish.   

SO, BANG the gun goes off, and off we head up toward the East Summit, The wind was a headwind, then would switch to a tailwind. I managed to get in a relaxed pace, as much as you can for 10, 000 feet and focused on form/cadence per coaches orders. I actually managed to get almost all the way up before needing a rest, then the down part was fun, because when you got a tail wind, It literally pushed you down the hill. I picked up some good speed, there.  I did have a few gusts of wind that were so strong that when I picked up my foot to step, It blew my leg in front of my other one, and almost tripped me. IT was that strong that I couldn’t hold it!!!

The second hill, was a bit more challenging, I spent more of this just running from snow pole, walk a snow pole, Run/walk.  The wind was so strong, that when it blew in a headwind, I literally would stop me to a standstill, so I would just walk when that hit.  Then as I got near the top, I pulled out my camera and stopped to take a few pictures. After all, this was a pretty amazing place to be running. I got a summit photo, then I turned around and headed down, and stopping here and there to get some pictures.  I had one gal snap a pic with a pretty awesome backdrop, and in my high elevation state, she said,” JUMP!!” which I just did with out thinking, and it actually ended up being a pretty fun photo!!  I headed down to the finish, and the wind was pushing me so strong, that I was pushing a 8 min pace, and I wasn’t working that hard, it was all wind.  I crossed the finish in 1:16 hr/min. A 11:48 pace. I’m actually pretty happy with that, It was a tough race, but fun, and very memorable!!

The Beartooth Run: 10 K at 10,000 Feet

I ran The Beartooth Run today!!!   It's a Race at 10,000 Feet elevation, on top of the Beartooth Scenic Highway.  It's a pretty beautiful area. I was pretty excited to do it, but not as excited as finding out my Coach up to my two week taper to Boulder IM.  This was my "fun" run for training. I figure I got in my hill work, and added the elevation for some extra work.

(cut and pasted from the other blog)

Sunday-  Woke around 4:30 AM. I got up and got moving, and was out the door by 5:00 AM.  I was heading to Red Lodge, then another 50 min up to the Beartooth Highway, and into WY for a 10 K race at 10,000 feet. This would be my “try something new” for Billings.  Granted, I’ve done 10 Ks, but it was the 10,000 feet that’s new. 

I got into Red Lodge early. But that was okay,  I was able to drive up the Beartooth Pass/Highway with no one else on the road, It was pretty cool, especially with the sun rising, the clouds, the wind.  oh…the wind.  I got to the top of the first lookout, and pulled over for a picture, used the restroom. IT was COLD.  I was a little worried that it would not warm up, because the clouds were pretty full in the sky, And the wind…the clouds were Racing across the mtns. I was going to be “racing” in the clouds!!  Ok that’s kinda cool. 

 See the wind in my hair???

I drove up the pass, and over into Wyoming, past the ski resort, and to the start of the race, I finally was seeing other cars now. I was one of the first ones, but not the first.  I was directed to park at the back, and I backed in. But then I looked back and was wondering…will my emergency break hold?? By this time, the wind was blowing so bad, my Escape was rocking pretty good. I had an image of my Escape going over. I have no idea how hard it was blowing, but I was waiting for the car to flip.  The temp was FREEZING also.  I, of course had no service here, so I have no idea how cold it was, but it was no where near 70 degrees that was claimed.  And again the clouds were “RACING” across the sky.  

So, here I sat, watching everyone else show up, I had an hour to kill. So I huddled in the Escape, I cleaned it up a bit. then I went on a scavenger hunt for any extra clothes I might have.  And after I put on three layers on top/two on bottom. I, Thank God, found gloves buried on the floor, and one of my AZ IM Beanies in the center console. I don’t think I would of survived without these. It was THAT COLD. 

Finally, it was time to get to the race start, and I bundled up with what I could, and headed over to use the porta potty and then to the race meeting. There were maybe 50 of us for the 10 K, and 50 for the 5K.  Brave Souls. 

The sun would peak out for five seconds max, then the clouds would zoom past and hide it again. The wind…..bitter cold, and fast.  

 The 10 K started in a valley, so we ran up a 1.3 mile hill to the East Summit, then turned around, ran down, and then ran up to the West Summit (higher at 1.5,but a bit steeper) then ran down to the finish.   

SO, BANG the gun goes off, and off we head up toward the East Summit, The wind was a headwind, then would switch to a tailwind. I managed to get in a relaxed pace, as much as you can for 10, 000 feet and focused on form/cadence per coaches orders. I actually managed to get almost all the way up before needing a rest, then the down part was fun, because when you got a tail wind, It literally pushed you down the hill. I picked up some good speed, there.  I did have a few gusts of wind that were so strong that when I picked up my foot to step, It blew my leg in front of my other one, and almost tripped me. It was that strong that I couldn’t hold it!!!

The second hill, was a bit more challenging, I spent more of this just running from snow pole, to walk a snow pole, Run/walk.  The wind was so strong, that when it blew in a headwind, It literally would stop me in my tracks to a standstill, so I would just walk when that hit.  Then as I got near the top, I pulled out my camera and stopped to take a few pictures. After all, this was a pretty amazing place to be running. I got a summit photo, then I turned around and headed down, and stopping here and there to get some pictures.  I had one gal snap a pic with a pretty awesome backdrop, and in my high elevation state, she said,” JUMP!!” which I just did with out thinking, and it actually ended up being a pretty fun photo!!  I headed down to the finish, and the wind was pushing me so strong, that I was pushing a 8 min pace, and I wasn’t working that hard, it was all wind.  I crossed the finish in 1:16 hr/min. A 11:48 pace. I’m actually pretty happy with that, It was a tough race, but fun, and very memorable!!  I'm glad I did it!!!

Longest Training Week, 19:11 Hours, 27 days to go....

This is my Journey into the World of Ironman. It's my journal/documentation of the ups and downs of what it takes to be an age-group athlete training for an Ironman triathlon. This is more of a way for me to remember what I am doing over the course of the training season, as any Ironman Athlete can tell you, sometimes the days can blur into one training day of swim, bike, run after another. So, while some may not find this at all interesting, those that wonder...could I do an Ironman? Do I have what it takes to do an Ironman? I give you a peek into my journey and days to complete my next Ironman.  Forgive any misspelled words/awkward sounding sentences. I'm pretty happy just to get them down on paper. Consider it a test of your mental skills to figure out what I'm saying. Hope you enjoy reading my journey.  I'll see you at the Finishline!!!

Current Training Totals:

Swim       69,750 yds             28:57 hr/min

Bike       1352.46  Miles       100:43 hr/min

Run         321:43  Miles         69:14 hr/min

Other/                                     30:15 hr/min

Strength

Overall  Training Time:       229:09 hr/min

This week is the longest training week of my plan. I have scheduled 18 plus hours.  I finished with 19:11 Hr/Min.

I also got my Bib Number for IMB 15!!!!

I see this as a challenge.  Like the "odds" are stacked against me. Like I have something to prove.  Well, I do.  It's called ....Redemption.   And I'm coming for you Boulder.  

Monday-  Today begins my long week. I came home from work and needed a 15 minute nap.  then I jumped on the trainer. And I was expecting this to be a tired, hard workout. But for some reason…It was good.  Once I got on the trainer, I was feeling strong. That nickels nap must of worked!!    I finished up my workout with a 25 min run in 93 degree heat. A good training workout. I felt good also. A nice easy run around the neighborhood.  

Tuesday-  Another hot day in the 90s, I was pretty tired again,  I took another nap, and then headed out late to the Y, only to forget my watch, back home and then back to the Y.  I got in my hour run on the treadmill. then into the pool i went, I did a long 3000 yds swim,  By half way through I was starting to feel shaky. Then insanely hungry. I had to stop and go get a quick “snack” before I could continue my swim.  Note to self….not enough calories today!

Wednesday-   Woke today and FINALLY got a ride outside. I did the Molt loop. I woke around 7 ish, got out the door around 8:30 ish. Then went up to Rimrock and headed out on the Molt Loop. It was a nice ride.  I enjoyed it. i felt pretty good, I stuck with going at the pace my coach wanted.  I got in some good hills. then I biked into Molt.  It’s safe to say, i don’ think it’s actually a “town”. I think there were 8 homes…and a post office.  I headed back home, and ended up riding into Laurel..where I took the Airport loop back to Billings, I managed to get in 60 miles by the time i pulled into my street.  Then I jumped on the trainer to finish out  the last 1:45 min with focused intervals. While it was hard, I was able to do the gradual build up.  I was kinda happy. I had planned to get my quick run in before heading out for a much needed hair cut, but I ran out of time. So a quick shower, and off I went to get my hair cut, run a few errands, and then home by 6 to get in my run. I had dinner, uploaded my data. Then , I got a call. The massage place had an 1 1/2 opening tomorrow for a massage.  I told them yes, i would take it and then planned my day accordingly.  I then tried to go to bed. But I was in so much pain from my legs being sore, that I had a hard time sleeping. SO I laid there until I was able to fall asleep.

Thursday— I woke around 7 AM and got the house cleaned up. Then I headed out on my longest run.  It was almost 3 hours. I am excited that I felt GOOD!!   I took my salts every mile, and my rocket fuel.  I did have to stop half way through, and had to refuel on some Mtn Dew. It gave me an extra kick.  I was also happy that my leg didn’t hurt as much as it did yesterday! 

I then went over to the Y and got in my swim in. Then I headed over to get a awesome Massage.  Heaven…then home to relax. aka….sleep

 recovery "snacks" all liquid of course

 salt 

Friday

Today is my longest swim yet. I had to get in 3900 yrds. I was worried about if I would have enough time. I got home and took my usual nickels nap, then headed over 1/2 hour early with the hopes that the pool would be empty with the holiday. I was RIGHT!! I was able to get in 15 min early. I slightly wished I could of gone earlier. But I got in the pool and went to work. I had work to do.  I managed to do 1000 yards with the paddles, but then I noticed my shoulder was bothering me.  And it got progressive as time went on. not horrible…but it wasn’t comfortable. I managed to finish. I was looking forward to the hot tub, but it was closed for repair. So long hot shower, and a quick trip to Lucky’s and I was home for the night.  I was tired, but excited that all my hard workouts are out of the way.  I only have two more to go.  And a Fun Run. :)

Saturday

I woke to a day off!  Happy 4th of July!!!   I slept in til 7 AM. Then I got up and took the dogs for a  run/walk .It was already  in the 70s out!! So we didn’t do to long of a walk. Then we got home, and I got on my trainer and got in my ‘easy” bike ride.  yeah, not so much. I’m glad i didn’t look at what I had to do until right before. Otherwise, i might have got  a bit of anxiety. I had to do 4 x 4 min all out.  I felt it. It was a tough workout, but I got it done!!! i felt good when I was done. Tired, but good. then I realized it was before noon. And I was free for the rest of the day. I didn’t know what to do!  So I took  shower, ran across town to do some minor shopping, then treated myself to a coffee, groceries and home. I enjoyed a bit of “sun” out back, it as in the high 90s. Radiating heat I’m sure made it over 100. I considered that  “heat Training”, then I came in, took a shower, and a 2 hour nap. then I got up and went to to the Freedom Run 5K. Another “heat training” plan. It was at 8:30 PM, which at that time, the temps were still 96 degrees according to my weather app. I had to wear “glowing” stuff. So I found a cool Ironman tank.   It was pretty cool if you ask me.   I started out faster then planned on the run, but I got caught up in the pace, and then I just ran with what felt comfortable, but also pushing it a little bit with what I could do in the heat.  It was nice that most of the neighbors were out, cheering us on, and spraying us all with their water hoses. I only was slightly worried, that the batteries of my shirt, could short circuit. But it was good in the end.   I ran across the finish line in 27:00 A new PR for a 5K. The last time I ever ran that fast was back in 2009. At a 5k race in Phx.  So……I enjoyed that run, I felt good and pushed hard at the end. I debated about sticking around for the fireworks, but honestly , I was tired. So I went’ home,  I got showered, and went to bed. 

somebody is hogging the fan. 

Sunday

Whew!! My last day of my longest training week!!  I have to admit, I’m tired. But I don’t feel insanely tired. I’ve really focused this week on eating really healthy (except for yesterday :))  And getting in enough water, getting all my supplements in.  I do feel pretty good for the most part, my legs are the only sore thing.  I felt it tonight on my 6 x hill repeats on the treadmill. I did my best to get my times, but my left leg was acting up a bit, so I just did what I could. and I made myself walk the last min of the 5 min “recovery” pace. I felt tired, my legs felt tired. But I didn’t quit.  I pushed through. And I finished.    I now am resting with my recovery compression socks on, feeling tired, but happy I got all my workouts in this week. I didn’t do my swim tonight, mainly because I can’t swim on the weekends. But I made up for it with an extra “fun” run last night. So I’m going to be happy with that, and excited to a all green week!  27 Days to Go!!